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Girl sent to hospital after dog attack

South Surrey owners have voluntarily opted to have the dog euthanized
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Dogo Argentino

A dog was scheduled to be put down this week after it attacked a girl in South Surrey last week.

The seven-year-girl was invited to play at a friend's home near 139 Street and 24 Avenue on Friday.

However, the family dog, a Dogo Argentino, attacked the girl, sending her to hospital.

She will survive, but she needs plastic surgery.

The owners of the dog have chosen to have the dog euthanized.

Surrey Bylaw Operations Manager Kim Marosevich said the owners of the dog made that decision prior to contact with Surrey bylaw officers.

The dog had history with Surrey bylaws some years ago, but officers noted at the time how outgoing and friendly the animal was.

"The owners are under no obligation to have the dog euthanized at this point, but that's the decision that they have made," Marosevich said Monday. "Although the evidence is quite compelling, the dog now meets the definition of dangerous.

Marosevich was hard-pressed to say what made the dog attack.

Dogo Argentinos were originally bred for big game hunting in Argentina, and often helped hunt other muscular animals such as wild boar.

"Not good," Marosevich said. "Little girl, big dog."

Bylaws will follow up to ensure the dog has been euthanized. Meanwhile, the investigation continues.